Solvang-based Lucas & Lewellen is back with two new releases from the 2016 vintage, a sparkling wine and a single-vineyard (but ultra-affordable) cabernet sauvignon.

Thoughts on both wines follow.

2016 Lucas & Lewellen Brut Santa Barbara County – 55% pinot noir, 45% chardonnay, all estate fruit. A touch of sweetness gives this sparkling wine a particular up-front lift, infusing its apple-citrusy palate with notes of coconut, buttered brioche, and just a hint of spice. I get a light brown sugar note on the finish, which feels perfectly at home. B+ / $36

2016 Lucas & Lewellen Cabernet Sauvignon Valley View Vineyard Santa Ynez Valley – 75% cabernet, with petit verdot, malbec, merlot, and cabernet franc making up the balance. A softer style of cabernet, but the notes of cinnamon, clove, and vanilla make this delightfully drinkable. A gently smoky character is evident as the finish builds, though ample cassis and plum notes give it plenty of fruit to hang on to. Gently brambly with just a touch of tannic bite, it’s an amazing value. A- / $27

llwine.com

2016 Lucas & Lewellen Brut Santa Barbara County

$36

8.5

Rating

8.5/10

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Christopher Null

Christopher Null is the founder and editor in chief of Drinkhacker. A veteran writer and journalist, he also operates Null Media, a bespoke content creation company.

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